Injuries have taken their toll on teams and will heavily influence how we evaluate teams moving forward. Will the Titans be able to pivot to a pass-oriented offense? How will the Saints fare with Trevor Simien at the helm? With Kyler Murray out, can the Cardinals squeak out a win against a division foe? Let’s take a look at the Week 9 slate for the NFL Sunday Picks.
Los Angeles Chargers at Philadelphia Eagles (+2)
Simply put, Justin Herbert and the rest of the Chargers have been terrible for the past few weeks. They have the talent advantage at almost every position. If the Chargers are serious about making the playoffs this season, they should take care of business against a team that continues to struggle moving the ball through the air. The game against the Lions was an aberration and the Chargers, despite their recent play, should pose a much larger threat than what they faced last week.
PREDICTION- Chargers(-2)
Cleveland Browns at Cincinnati Bengals (-2)
The Browns were the topic of conversation after Odell Beckham’s father posted a video of all the times his son was open during the season. The film did not put Baker Mayfield in a positive light and further proved the poor chemistry between the two. This week, however, for the NFL Sunday Picks it’s all about Cleveland’s run game. It has been unstoppable at times during the season. Everyone knows the run is coming but is powerless to stop it. If there was ever a week for Mayfield to make winning plays and help get his team past a division rival, this is it.
PREDICTION- Browns (+2)
Chicago Bears at Pittsburgh Steelers (-6.5)
Ben Roethlisberger is washed. His arm and mobility can be talked about in the past tense. At times, it’s painful to watch him try and evade opposing defenders. We’ve seen a number of throws fall short of open receivers. This is certainly his last year in Pittsburgh. With that being said, the Steeler’s defensive front against a terrible Chicago offensive line will make a pitbull mauling a kitten look like a child’s play. The Bears’ offense could implode and struggle to score points. This is a bet for T.J. Watt and ultimately we believe the defense will carry Pittsburgh to a 7 point victory over the Bears.
PREDICTION- Steelers(-6.5)
